West Side graduates line up and awit the start of the ceremony.
The West Side graduates prepare to receive their diplomas.
Salutatoriam Ian Hatch addressses the audience during the West Side commencment exercises on May 21.
The West Side graduates change their tassles.
Friends and family filled the Dahle Fine Arts Center on May 21 to support 54 West Side seniors as they took their first steps into adulthood. Some will linger a little longer than others before spreading their wings but all are considering what comes next.
Just prior to the event, Superintendent Tyler Telford recognized the efforts of Andy Clawson in the acquisition and installation of the recently updated sound system. A short demo showcasing some of the system’s capabilities was given.
After the processional played by the West Side High School Band, a welcome was given by Garrett Taylor.
Salutatorian Ian Hatch was the first speaker. He encouraged the graduates to embrace the differences that make each person special and reminded them that no one’s path through life looks the same. He finished stating, “Be bold, be brave and never stop chasing what makes you come alive.”
A musical number written and performed by Brielle Evans, “Dear High School “ by Carolina Rial modified by Evans, was next on the program followed by Valedictorian McCoy Winward.
Winward quoted Master Oogway from his favorite childhood movie “Kung Fu Panda”, "Yesterday is history, Tomorrow is a mystery, but Today is a gift," stressing the importance of being here right now and appreciating every moment rather that dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
A medley of songs created the year the seniors were born, “Melody of Hedwigs Theme”, “We’re All in This Together”, and the “Wii Theme” by John Williams, Mathew Gerrard and N. Levine arranged by Britta Hanson was then performed by the West Side High School Band.
The Senior slideshow was next followed by a musical number “Homeward Bound” by Marla Keen arranged by Jat Althouse, performed by the West Side High School Choir.
Principal Kory Kay presented the graduating class and then introduced each one. Telford congratulated them, and Chairman of the Board John Jensen presented the diplomas.
After the changing of the tassels, Superintendent Tyler Telford gave his closing remarks. He recognized the graduates’ academic excellence in earning a combined total of 462 college credits. He also called retiring math teacher Lucinda Bingham to the podium recognizing her many hours of instruction and positive influence over the years. She began teaching at West Side in 1986 for several years then took a break to focus on family. Bingham returned in returned in 2004 until 2025 for over 26 years of service at West Side. AS she approached the podium Bingham was given a standing ovation.
Citizen sports writer/Production
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